Nigerian star heads to Liga MX as Querétaro FC seal breakthrough loan transfer

Nigerian forward Paul Oladimeji Kilani has completed a loan move to Mexican top-flight side Querétaro FC from Atlantic Business Football Club, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 20-year-old striker joins the Liga MX outfit on a one-year loan deal that includes an option for a permanent transfer, marking a major step in his growing career and ABFC’s commitment to exporting young talent to the global stage.

Kilani has already arrived in Mexico and successfully passed his medical, with the transfer now fully concluded. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed by either club.

Querétaro FC, a historic club in Mexican football that has previously featured stars such as Ronaldinho and Antonio Valencia, are hoping Kilani can boost their attack after a difficult start to the season that has produced only one goal from three matches.

Kilani targets impact in Querétaro FC

The striker departs Nigerian football with a strong reputation after several seasons with Atlantic Business FC, where he developed into one of the most feared young forwards in domestic competition.

His move follows years of perseverance, having earlier gone on trials in Latvia and featured at the Viareggio Cup in Italy as part of his journey toward European and international exposure.

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

Speaking after the deal was confirmed, Kilani expressed gratitude to his former club for their support throughout his development.

“I want to thank ABFC for everything they have done for me — the motivation, the support and the belief. I also appreciate the coaches and staff who have helped me grow. I will do my best to make them proud,” he said.

ABFC President Henry Obinna described the transfer as well-deserved, backing the striker’s quality and future potential.

“Dimeji is among the best young players in Nigeria. His ability is good enough for national youth teams, and this move gives him the exposure he needs at a high level. He is not only talented but disciplined, and we believe he will represent us well in Mexico,” Obinna stated.

Beyond Borders Agency Director Joel Biselenge revealed that Kilani has already trained with Querétaro’s first team and made a strong impression in early sessions.

“He has settled in well and even scored spectacular goals in training. Adaptation will take time, but the signs are very positive. This is a strategic move that could open doors to bigger leagues in Europe,” Biselenge said.

Kilani’s arrival also makes him the first Nigerian player in Querétaro FC’s history, as he aims to become one of the few Nigerians to succeed in the Mexican top division.